Clare Hargreaves-Norris

Functions of the Skin

NVQ Level 2 Beauty Therapy

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There are 7 main functions of the skin and these are:

Sensation Heat regulation Absorption Protection Excretion Secretion Vitamin D production

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Sensation

Acts as a sense organ to detect changes in the environment such as heat, cold, touch, pressure and pain.

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Heat regulation

Helps to keep body at a constant temperature of 37C by dilation (widening) and constriction (narrowing) of the blood vessels. Sweat evaporation also keeps the body cool. The subcutaneous fat insulates the body.

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Absorption

The skin has a limited amount of absorption properties. It can absorb certain particles that are small enough to be absorbed such as female hormones, nicotine patches, ingredients within facial preparations etc.

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Protection

A waterproof coat protects the body against dirt, bacterial infection and chemical attack.

1. Acid mantle pH 5.5 ( made up from sebum and sweat) discourages growth of bacteria and also fungi.

2. The horny layer of the epidermis acts as a filter against bacteria.

3. Melanin in the epidermis protects against damage form ultra violet rays.

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Excretion

Waste products such as lactic acid, urea and salts are lost through perspiration, however this is only a minor function.

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Secretion

Sebum is secreted by the sebaceous glands.

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Vitamin D production

This occurs due to the reaction of sunlight on the skin producing a chemical reaction.